“Commuters from Guildford already feel that they’re getting a rough deal,” she said.

“We’ve had huge problems with the queues at ticket offices albeit that these have been helped with the new machines.

“However, peak-time trains are already packed and I think most people will feel these fare increases are adding insult to injury.”

Passenger Focus – an independent body set up to look out for interests of train travellers – shares Mrs Milton’s concerns and fears the new year rise could be just the start of spiralling ticket costs.

“Passengers will be dismayed that fares are going up again, especially as on most routes they have no choice about which train company to use,” said Passenger Focus chief executive Anthony Smith.

“This is the reality of the government’s strategy for our railways. Passengers should brace themselves for fare rises from now until 2014 as their contribution to railway services nearly doubles from £5 billion to £9 billion each year.

“They will rightly expect a better service for this.”

South West Trains defended the price hike, pointing to the extra income being spent on improvements for the benefit of passengers.

“South West Trains has been making improvements to its rolling stock and during the last year has refurbished 54 diesel coaches,” said a company spokesman.

“By May next year, the entire diesel fleet will be refurbished, which will bring benefits for passengers travelling from the west of England.

“Some of the improvements include on-board CCTV, passenger information screens, new first and standard class seats and improved lighting.

“Over the next year the improvements will continue to roll out across the network as South West Trains’ passengers will see big improvements at stations, car parks and on trains.”